Viewers may missMark Harmonin the role of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, but there is a new NCIS agent in town.Austin Stowellspoke toPeople Magazineabout filling these large shoes in another spin-off of the flagship series. Aptly titledNCIS: Origins, the new series will take place in 1991, when Gibbs is still in his youth and learning the ropes. Harmon has given his full support to the younger actor, as Stowell explained to the outlet how he approached tackling the iconic character.
“I knew I had something that I could bring to the character that was very real, that was palpable. But I also knew that I was stepping into a character that was creative, created and filled out and beloved by this guy for 20 years. And I wanted to pay homage to his acting talent.So I wasn’t doing an impression, but I was trying to encapsulate who I thought Mark was.”
Harmon commended Stowell’s efforts in the interview, stating: “Austin has to birth this guy. He’s got the challenge and also the gift to be able to play this guy younger and to be able to let him be the newbie.”Stowell’s Gibbs isn’t going to be the stoic leaderthat fans may know him as. The actor notes that this Gibbs will be making mistakes, which is ultimately what will make the series worth tuning in for.NCIS: Originswon’t be theNCISviewers are familiar with.
‘NCIS: Origins’ Has the Chance to Do a Prequel Right
With studios and networks focused on how to squeeze any blood remaining from the IP stone, prequels just make sense. Famous franchises likeA Song of Ice and Firehave worked splendidly withHouse of the Dragon, a series set in a fan-favorite world.NCISdoes the same but has the opportunity to put a spin on a classic character. Stowell is adamant that his portrayal of the character is a spiritual love letter to Gibbs, which is the best way to approach recasting familiar characters.
While divisive,Solo: A Star Wars Storywas particularly clever with this philosophy.Alden Ehrenreichrefused to imitateHarrison Fordwhen playing a younger version of Han Solo. Fans lashed out at this interpretation, but the logic is sound. The only way any series or movie can set itself apart is to make the subject a new creation. If Young Gibbs in the prequel was the same as inNCIS, there would be no reason to watch the series. Stowell promises to bring new life to Jethro Gibbs whenNCIS: Originspremieres on CBS on Monday, October 14.
NCIS: Origins
Follows a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs as he starts his career as part of the Naval Investigative Service operating out of the Camp Pendleton.
WATCH ON CBS
